Name: Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: ¾ cup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup real mayonnaise; ¼ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish; 2 teaspoons ketchup; ¼ teaspoon ground paprika; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 drops hot sauce, or to taste; 1 pinch dried oregano; 1 pinch ground black pepper

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Table of Contents: Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib

Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib

Remember those special holiday dinners, the centerpiece a perfectly roasted prime rib? Or perhaps a cozy Sunday supper with family, where every bite felt like a warm hug? A truly memorable prime rib experience isn’t just about the beef; it’s about the accompaniments, and nothing elevates a prime rib quite like a vibrant, flavorful Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib.

This isn’t your average sauce – it’s a tradition, a flavor explosion, and surprisingly simple to make. We’ll show you how to create this prime rib sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).

This recipe delivers a creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy sauce that perfectly cuts through the richness of prime rib. It’s a classic sauce that’s been enjoyed for generations, and for good reason. It’s more than just a condiment; it’s a finishing touch that transforms a good meal into a great one.

Whether you’re preparing a grand holiday roast or a more modest weeknight dinner, this beef accompaniment is guaranteed to impress. It’s a versatile sauce too – don’t limit it to prime rib! We’ll explore some other delicious pairings later on.

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find this recipe referred to as Creamed Horseradish Sauce, or simply Horseradish Sauce. Some variations include adding a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness, or a finely minced shallot for a bit of oniony bite. For a smoother sauce, you can use finely grated horseradish instead of prepared.

If you’re looking for a different kind of prime rib sauce, consider a red wine reduction, but for a truly traditional experience, this horseradish cream sauce is the way to go.

Ingredients: Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful sauce:

* ½ cup real mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for best flavor and texture)
* ¼ cup sour cream (adds tang and richness)
* 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (choose your heat level – see FAQs!)
* 2 teaspoons ketchup (provides a subtle sweetness and color)

* ¼ teaspoon ground paprika (adds a hint of smokiness and color)
* ¼ teaspoon salt (enhances the flavors)
* ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a gentle kick – adjust to your preference)
* 2 drops hot sauce, or to taste (optional, for extra heat)

* 1 pinch dried oregano (adds a subtle herbaceous note)
* 1 pinch ground black pepper (freshly ground is best!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the Base: In a medium-sized bowl, add the mayonnaise and sour cream. Whisk together until smooth and well combined. This creates the creamy foundation of your sauce.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t skimp on the quality of the mayonnaise and sour cream. Using full-fat versions will result in a richer, more flavorful sauce.

2. Add the Horseradish: Stir in the prepared horseradish. Start with 2 tablespoons and taste. You can always add more if you prefer a stronger horseradish flavor.
Chef’s Tip: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with 1 tablespoon of horseradish and work your way up.

3. Incorporate the Flavor Enhancers: Add the ketchup, paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, hot sauce (if using), oregano, and black pepper to the bowl.

4. Mix Thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed and the sauce is a consistent color. Make sure there are no clumps of horseradish or spices.

5. Taste and Adjust: This is the most important step! Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more horseradish for heat, ketchup for sweetness, salt for flavor, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

6. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve chilled alongside your perfectly roasted prime rib!
Chef’s Tip: The sauce actually tastes better after it’s had a chance to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib comes together in under 10 minutes! It’s a quick and easy way to elevate your meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Total Time: 5 minutes + 30 minutes chilling
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 150 per serving (estimate)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because it balances the creamy richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream with the sharp, pungent flavor of horseradish. The ketchup adds a touch of sweetness that complements the horseradish, while the paprika and cayenne pepper provide a subtle warmth. It’s a simple formula, but the result is a complex and incredibly satisfying sauce.

This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners – it feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The key is to use good quality ingredients and to taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment! A little extra horseradish can go a long way, but so can a pinch of oregano or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is a great starting point for creating your own signature beef accompaniment.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: While you can freeze this sauce, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The mayonnaise and sour cream can separate. If you do choose to freeze it, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating: Because the sauce is best served cold, reheating isn’t typically necessary. If you’ve frozen it and need to bring it back to a more consistent texture, gently whisk it after thawing. Avoid microwaving, as this can further separate the ingredients.

People Also Ask: Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the perfect Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib:

How do you make horseradish cream sauce for prime rib?

This Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib is incredibly easy to make! Simply combine mayonnaise, sour cream, prepared horseradish, ketchup, paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, hot sauce (optional), oregano, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, taste, and adjust seasonings to your preference.

The most important part is to let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It’s a fantastic classic sauce that requires no cooking, making it a perfect addition to any meal, especially a beautiful prime rib roast.

What kind of horseradish is best?

The best kind of horseradish depends on your personal preference for heat. Prepared horseradish comes in varying strengths, from mild to extra hot. For this prime rib sauce, I recommend starting with a medium-strength prepared horseradish and adding more to taste.

You can also use freshly grated horseradish root, but be warned – it’s much more potent than the prepared version! If using fresh, start with a very small amount and add gradually.

Can I make this horseradish cream sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making this Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib ahead of time is highly recommended. The flavors develop and meld together beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container.

Just give it a good stir before serving. This makes it a stress-free beef accompaniment for busy holiday schedules.

What other dishes pair well with horseradish cream sauce?

While traditionally served with prime rib, this sauce is surprisingly versatile! It’s delicious with roasted pork, grilled steak, smoked salmon, or even as a dip for vegetables. It also adds a wonderful zing to turkey burgers or chicken sandwiches.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite pairings! It’s a great way to add a little excitement to everyday meals.

Conclusion: Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib

So there you have it – a simple, yet incredibly flavorful Horseradish Cream Sauce for Prime Rib that will take your meal to the next level. Don’t be intimidated by the horseradish; it’s all about finding the right balance for your taste buds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see for yourself how much of a difference a good sauce can make.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Leave a comment below and let me know what you thought, or share your photos on social media. Happy cooking!